Wednesday Reading

I'm in the middle of three books, one of which I will be in the middle of for ages as it's a ridiculously long web novel which the author is also in the middle of, unless he finished it recently and I missed it. That's Ward by Wildbow, the sequel to Worm, his engrossing million-word epic about a girl who can control bugs. If the format makes your eyes bleed, some judicious googling will turn up downloadable versions. Please do contribute to the author's Patreon or PayPal him some cash if you read.

The other books I'm in the middle of are a pair of re-reads, Fitzempress' Law by Diana Norman and Doomsday Book by Connie Willis.

Please don't comment to inform me that my links are problematic. I'm aware. My recent attempts to create less problematic book links only resulted in a cascade of milkshake ducks.

Also, please don't comment to say that you would never read what I'm reading. I get a lot of comments like that. I understand that you don't mean it in a judgy way, but it sounds judgy. I am well aware that the majority of my readers prefer to read escapist fluffy stuff when their lives are depressing.

I too sometimes have that impulse. But I just as often have the impulse to read books for a different sort of comfort: the comfort of hearing, "I've been there too. I understand. And after all that, books will still be written; the one you're reading now is proof."

March 32, 2020

My recent pandemic activities:

Converted a cat bonnet a friend gave me as a joke into a cloth mask.

Discovered that many restaurants are selling groceries to stay afloat, which can be picked up by paying with a credit card over the phone (tip included), then driving up and popping the trunk. No contact, and helps small businesses. You might try calling local restaurants to see if any are doing this in your area.

Discovered that LA County health department was shutting down restaurants due to selling groceries without a permit - the day after all our farmers markets were shut down! Composed angry and heartfelt letter to the mayor. Before sending, looked up article on this to check a detail. Discovered breaking news that the mayor is working out guidelines with the health department to make this legal.

Planted a lot of plants.

Ran out of containers. Converted a styrofoam cooler, a coffee can, and a container of toy soldiers into planters by punching holes in the bottom. Currently eyeing nearly-empty container of hot chocolate.

Watched gorgeous pink sunset with neighbors, six feet apart.